Only 3 in 10 people aware of tax-free regulations when they fly

Some 7 out of 10 Swedes do not know at all that they can make tax-free purchases when they arrive at Swedish airports, while 8 out of 10 do not know what they are allowed to buy.

These are the findings of a new survey of some 1,100 people that the market research company Novus conducted on behalf of the airport operator Swedavia.

That means few people know that it is possible to make additional purchases when they travel abroad. There are, in fact, many advantages to being able to make tax-free purchases in connection with the return trip home – for instance, if you want to avoid buying cosmetics and perfume on your way out that you know you will not use until you return home. You also have the chance to make a few last-minute tax-free purchases – then it may be worthwhile knowing what you are allowed to purchase.

What you can purchase on arrival

These are the regulations for what you can purchase on arrival from a Schengen country:

All passengers, domestic and international, may purchase:

Fragrances and cosmetics at tax-free prices.

Sweets and chocolate

Gourmet food items, souvenirs and clothing

Tobacco at the same prices as in the city centre

Snus (moist snuff) at lower prices than in the city centre

Most popular tax-free items

Swedavia has tracked the top sellers in the tax-free stores at Swedish airports this summer.

Among fragrances, Shakira Eau Florale tops the list for women, while Hugo Boss Dark Blue tops the list for men.

The best-selling skincare product for women is Biotherm Lait Corporel, the best-selling cosmetic product is Lancome Hypnose Mascara, and for men the best-selling skincare product is Biotherm Aquapower Moisturizer.

Among wines and spirits, the top sellers are the Italian red wine Masi Nectar Campofiorin, the Italian bubbly Prosecco Spumante Brut Collalbrigo and the whiskey Famous Grouse.